Skihist Provincial Park

Situated high above the junction of the Thompson and Fraser Rivers, Skihist offers spectacular views of the Thompson Canyon. The scent of sagebrush fills the air in Skihist Provincial Park, yet another park with an historical flavour. The park encompasses a section of the old Cariboo Wagon Road, which was used by early settlers and travellers here in the heart of the Thompson First Nation.

The best things about this park are the Saskatoon berries, which you can munch on when they’re in season, and the whitewater river-rafting. There are several local companies in Lytton or Spences Bridge that offer guided tours down the wild Thompson and Fraser Rivers.

The Nahatlatch, Fraser, and Thompson Rivers are all justifiably well known for their river-rafting experiences. Of the three, the Fraser and Thompson are more prominent, though not necessarily more challenging than the Nahatlatch. In fact, the Nahatlatch provides more excitement in its varied run than either of the others. Both the Thompson and the Nahatlatch flow into the Fraser within a short distance of each other. The season begins in May, once water levels become manageable. Although it’s entirely possible to run these rivers unaccompanied, the majority of paddlers opt for the services of a certified guide, at least the first time.

The park is also a great place to visit in summer for hiking and nature rambling. There are 58 vehicle/tent campsites at this park, on a first-come, first-served basis – campsite reservations are not accepted. Basic facilities are provided. Fess are collected April to October, the entrance gate is locked from 11:00 pm to 7:00 am. During the camping season, overnight visitors can now pay at the campground with a self registration system – cash only.

The day-use is located on the north side of Highway # 1 directly across from the campground. There are 12 picnic tables located in a large grassy area surrounded by ponderosa pines offering lots of shade. Around the perimeter of the grass is a paved walkway which guides the visitor to a spectacular view of the Thompson River Canyon below. There is a paved perimeter trail allowing wheelchair access to some picnic tables

Skihist Provincial Park is located above the Thompson River on the Trans-Canada Highway 1, approximately 6 km east of Lytton, British Columbia.

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